Lowental Hybrid Ltd., a global innovator in hybrid UAV propulsion recently announced that Elbit Systems Ltd has selected its Native Parallel Hybrid propulsion systems to dramatically extend mission endurance for tactical unmanned aerial vehicles. The implementation will enable Elbit Systems to achieve significantly extended flight duration, minimise ground battery logistics requirements through in-flight charging, and maintain silent electric operation for covert missions. This selection, endorsed by
Lowental Hybrid’s chairman, Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin (retd), former Commander of the Israeli Air Force, supports Elbit’s broader initiative to enhance tactical UAV capabilities while meeting evolving military operational requirements.
Elbit Systems sought to achieve significant flight duration improvements for tactical UAVs while retaining quiet, low-signature operation capabilities essential for ISR missions. The organisation required a solution that would meet NATO standards for electric-stealth operation while maintaining military-grade reliability and reducing battery dependence.
Elbit Systems selected Lowental Hybrid’s Native Parallel Hybrid system for its ability to deliver extended endurance with operational simplicity, continuous in-flight battery charging, and Israeli-developed technology ensuring supply-chain independence and compliance with strict defence and export regulations. Unlike conventional combustion or all-electric systems, the solution provides seamless transitions between electric and combustion power modes. Successful flight demonstrations validated the system’s performance. The Native Parallel Hybrid system’s modular design enables adaptable integration across various UAV platforms, making it suitable for widespread adoption beyond this initial deployment.
The long-term agreement spanning a decade includes development, procurement, and services, with an initial scope of approximately USD1.4M, followed by substantial multi-year revenue from additional systems and support. Lowental Hybrid will provide dedicated engineering and integration support throughout the contract term, enabling Elbit Systems to integrate the hybrid propulsion technology across multiple UAV programs.
“Elbit Systems is a global leader in unmanned aerial solutions, and we are proud to collaborate with them on introducing true hybrid propulsion into a tactical platform. Our joint work marks an important technological milestone, enhancing endurance, reliability, and simplicity of use. This achievement reflects how close cooperation between innovative startups and established defense leaders can accelerate meaningful progress in the UAV domain,” said CEO, Lowental Hybrid Ltd, Doron Fridman
